What to Do in Zion National Park with Kids
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zion is an unforgettable adventure for the entire family
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My daughter and I at the top of scout landing
If you’re looking for what to do in Zion National Park with kids (or without!), you’re in the right place. There are so many things to do with kids in Zion. This park is home to a deep beautiful canyon called Zion Canyon. Here you will find the winding Virgin River, drastic canyon walls jutting into the sky, and the famous Narrows. The Park was originally designated Mukuntuweap National Monument in 1909 and then changed to Zion National Monument in 1918. Zion was established as a National Park by President Woodrow Wilson in 1919. It was the first National Park to be designated in Utah. Zion National Park is visited by approximately 4.3 million people annually and is about is only about 147,237 acres. Whether you are traveling with kids or without, you’ll fall in love with this gorgeous National Park.
Every visitor to Zion National Park should make a stop at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center to get a park map, get a weather update, info about the park’s road conditions and possible closures and explore the outdoor educational walk where you’ll learn about Zion’s animals, ecology and deep-rooted history. You can also visit HEHEREo see up-to-date closures and weather. Park Rangers are also a wonderful resource for finding out the parks more off the beaten path spots.
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When to Visit Zion National Park
Summertime is Zion’s busiest and hottest season. In 2019 Zion National Park welcomed 594,896 visitors in the month of June alone. That is A LOT of people. The summer is also the hottest season in Zion with temperatures averaging 95-100 degrees F. Since many people have the most time off work and kids are out of school, this is the most popular time of year to visit Zion.
However, I believe the best time of year to visit Zion National Park is in the late fall or winter. The crowds are much thinner, the weather is much cooler and you’ll likely be able to drive along the Zion Canyon road in your own car! In 2019 Zion welcomed 173,566 visitors in December 2019 and they welcomed 128,854 visitors in January 2020. This means there were 70% fewer people in December than in June! Fewer people in the park means fewer people on the trails, fewer cars fighting for parking, and more access to the park amenities!
We visited in December 2020 and absolutely loved every second of it. The weather was perfect and while we did see other people on trails, we were never ever crowded. Since the Zion National Park weather can vary drastically, I would decide which temperatures would work best for your family before booking a trip to Zion with kids.
The average annual weather for reference COURTESY of weather-US.com
How to get to Zion National Park
Zion National Park is absolutely amazing, but it isn’t super convenient to get to if you’re used to traveling big highways or making day trips from big cities. To give you an idea of how long it will take to get to the park, here are a few examples.
Obligatory national park sign photo!
How far is Zion National Park from Las Vegas? 2 hours, 35 minutes
Salt Lake City to Zion National Park is 4 hours, 30 minutes
Bryce Canyon National Park to Zion National park is 1 hour, 25 minutes
Grand Canyon National Park to Zion National park is 1 hours 55 minutes
Great Basin National Park to Zion National park is 3 hours and 20 minutes
Zion National Park’s South Entrance is located along State Route 9 which connects La Verkin to Mt Carmel. Springdale is the closest town to the South Entrance. From the North (or East), the park is accessible with Route 9 as well, but you’ll be closer to the town of Mt Carmel. Springdale will be your best choice for grocery stores, gasoline, and food options, but be prepared to pay a premium price. Only an hour away is the city of St George, so don’t miss The Best Things to Do in St George with Kids.
READ NEXT: What to do in Capitol Reef National Park
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How Much Does it Cost to Get into Zion National Park?
Zion National park Visitor Center
Entrance Fee
Private Vehicle: $35. Valid for 7 days. Admits private, non-commercial vehicle (15 passenger capacity or less) and all occupants to Zion National Park, including both the Zion Canyon and Kolob Canyon areas.
Motorcycle: $30. Valid for 7 days: Admits one non-commercial motorcycle to Zion National Park, including both the Zion Canyon and Kolob Canyon areas.
Bicyclists, hikers, and pedestrians are per person: $20. Valid for 7 days. Admits one individual with no car to Zion National Park, including both the Zion Canyon and Kolob Canyon areas. Youth 15 and under are admitted free.
Buy an Annual Pass to all of the U.S. National Parks HERE.
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Where to Stay in Zion National Park
Zion National Park Lodging:
We stayed inside the park at zion lodge!
Zion National Park Lodges:
Zion Lodge: The beautiful Zion Lodge lies in the middle of Zion Canyon. With the lodge open year-round and offering special winter rates and packages, visitors can easily experience Zion National Park. Accommodations include historic cabins with two double beds, a full bath, a gas log fireplace, and a private porch, and hotel rooms with a private porch or balcony. All rooms feature air conditioning, phones, radio alarm clocks, and hairdryers.
We chose to stay in a King Suite during our stay at Zion Lodge. The room had a private balcony, full bathroom, ample storage space, a mini-fridge, king-sized bed, pull-out couch, recliner chair, and a small dining table. The king bed was in a separate sleeping area from the living room which makes this the best place to stay in Zion for families!
Perhaps the biggest perk to staying in the Zion Lodge is that you get to drive on Zion Canyon road and park at the lodge. This puts you INSIDE the park and many of the trailheads start right at the lodge. If you’re looking for convenience - this is it.
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This is the kids playing in the living room of our king suite. we brought our own christmas tree to make it feel christmasy since it was the week before christmas
this is view from our balcony where I had coffee every morning.,
Zion National park Campgrounds:
There are three campgrounds located inside Zion National Park. Both South and Watchman campgrounds are located in Zion Canyon while Lava Point Campground is located near the Kolob Canyons section of Zion. It is highly recommended that you make reservations well in advance to secure your spot. These campgrounds sell out months in advance. From mid-March through late November the campgrounds are full almost every night.
We chose zion lodge because we are guaranteed parking and have direct access to trail heads
South Campground: Reservations required. This 117 site campground can host tents or RVs but does not have any hook-ups. There is potable water available in the campground. The campground does not have restrooms, but campers have access to the restroom at Watchman campground. South campground has a dump station. HERE is a map of South Campground.
Cost: $20 per site per night
Watchman Campground: Reservations required. This 190 site campground can host tents of RVs and some sites do offer electric hook-ups. Loop B is designated for RVs only. There are 7 accessible sites in this campground. HERE is a map of Watchman Campground.
Cost: $20 per site per night (non electric) & $30 per site per night (electric)
Lava Point Campground: This campground is located at 7,890 feet and is usually only open May-September weather permitting. Lava Point only has 6 primitive campsites which are available first come, first serve. The campground has pit toilets and trash cans, but no water.
READ NEXT: How to ENJOY Tent Camping with Toddlers
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The views along the grotto trail up to scout lookout are unreal.
Where to Stay Outside of Zion National Park
This is playground at cliffrose Sprindale
Recommended Camping near Zion National Park:
Zion Crest Campground & RV Park: (EAST ENTRANCE) Zion National Park campground is located just outside the eastern boundary of the park. RV and camping enthusiasts can find a clean and well-kept place to stay, as they view the scenic terrain of Southern Utah. Zion Crest Campground is part of Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort where campers will also have access to dining and recreation services. Bryce Canyon National Park is just 75 minutes away and there are many other scenic attractions that are more easily accessible from this side of Zion.
Zion Canyon Campground: (SOUTH ENTRANCE) This campground offers 133 full hook-up campsites and 47 tent sites. Zion Canyon Campground offers full shower facilities, BBQ grills, fire pits, playgrounds, and so much more. This the only campground in Springdale, so the convenient location makes it very popular. Book well in advance to snag a spot here.
Recommended Hotels Near Zion National Park:
Cliffrose Springdale: (South Entrance) This is where the outdoors meets luxury. The historic Cliffrose lodge sits on the edge of the Virgin River, steps from local dining. Zion National Park Visitor Center is a half-mile away via the hotel’s free local shuttle and five minutes from Zion Canyon. Cliffrose has two heated outdoor pools and hot tubs open year-round as well as an on-site playground. Enjoy all-day dining at our restaurant, the fitness center, and free parking. Cliffrose Springdale now hosts the luxurious Five Petals Spa where guests can get a facial or massage. (We had spa treatments here and it’s absolutely fantastic!!)
Holiday Inn Express Springdale: (South Entrance) The Holiday Inn Express is perfectly situated just outside of Zion National Park and is tucked among the towering red rock cliffs of Zion Canyon. The hotel was recently renovated. This premier Zion National Park lodging choice has spectacular scenic views, a fantastic location, and excellent amenities. Holiday Inn Express Springdale has a seasonal swimming pool and year-round hot tub with amazing views, walking paths near the Virgin River, manicured grounds to recharge in nature, easy access to Zion and the town of Springdale via the free shuttle, delicious hot breakfast to start your day off right, and so much more!
Inside the 5 petals spat at cliffrose
The view from inside five petals spa at cliffrose
If you want more lodging options, use this map to scroll and find whatever meets your needs!
Booking.comUnderstanding the Zion Shuttle
Zion has a unique feature that separates it from most other National Parks. This feature is the Zion Shuttle System. Due to an overwhelming number of visitors each year and the very few parking spaces inside the park, the shuttle system was established in 2000. Since visitors are not allowed to drive their own vehicle on to Zion Canyon Scenic road, the choices are: ride the shuttle, bike through the park, or walk.
The shuttle makes stops at the Zion Lodge and trailheads, including Emerald Pools, West Rim Trail, and Temple of Sinawava where hikers depart for the Narrows.
Due to the need for social distancing, currently, every visitor to Zion must have shuttle tickets to ride the shuttle. The cost is only $1 and it is highly recommended you book in advance.
The National Park Service has put together a comprehensive guide to understanding the Zion Shuttle and has an entire FAQ section to help you. Depending on what time of year you visit, the park Shuttle may have different
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What to do in Zion National Park with Kids
The kids sitting overlooking scout lookout which is the entry point to angels landing
1) Hike
Hiking is arguably one of the best things to do in Zion National Park. Zion has hiking for any ability. Truly hiking is one of the best family activities in Zion National Park because it gets the whole family up close to the flora and fauna as well as the wildlife of the park. Zion Canyon is the most heavily trafficked part of the park, so plan to hike early in the morning. It’s important for visitors to plan their hiking times around the shuttle service. If you miss the last shuttle, you will have to walk back to either the Lodge or the Visitor Center from the trailhead.
From the National Park Service:
“Hiking the trails of Zion National Park can provide lasting memories, but this environment can be harsh and unforgiving. Park Rangers respond to numerous rescues each year, many of which are preventable. Your safety is your responsibility and that begins with proper planning and preparation prior to your visit.”
Best Hikes for Toddlers in Zion National Park
This is the trail along riverside walk.
Pa’rus Trail: THIS TRAIL IS ACCESSIBLE. This trail starts at the Visitor Center and is approximately 3 miles. This is a paved trail and there are trail side exhibits as you hike along. Pa’rus Trail is the only trail in Zion where pets are allowed and where bikers are allowed to ride on the trail.
Riverside Trail: (DO NOT MISS) THIS TRAIL IS ACCESSIBLE for the first 0.4 miles, but wheelchairs may need a little help in some areas. This easy 2.2-mile trail takes hikers right along the Virgin River and into a deep canyon. The end of this trail is the start of The Narrows. This is one of the Zion National Park kid friendly hikes.
Best Hikes for Kids in Zion National Park:
There are so many kid friendly hikes in Zion National Park. All of the trails listed below would be good for children as young as 3 or 4. As long as they an hike a bit on their own two feet, these are the right distance and difficulty.
We found this awesome cave with this view when we were hiking along Canyon overlook trail
Canyon Overlook Trail: DO NOT MISS THIS HIKE. This was the first hike we did in Zion that our jaws dropped at the view. This trail is a moderate 1 mile hike that takes hikers along dramatic canyon walls and to an overlook perched over Zion Canyon. This is one of the Zion National Park kid-friendly hikes that we loved! HOWEVER, If you are afraid of heights, you may want to skip this one.
Watchman Trail: This 3.3 mile trail starts at the Visitor Center and ends at viewpoint of the Temples and Towers, lower Zion Canyon, Watchman Peak, and Springdale. This trail is good if you are afraid of heights, but still want the views of Zion Canyon.
Emerald Pool Trails: Lower Emerald Pool: 1.2 miles round drip (mostly paved), Middle Emerald Pool: 1.6 miles round trip, Upper Emerald Pool: 3 miles round trip. We did both the Middle Emerald Pool and Upper Emerald Pools. There are some gorgeous views along this trail as well as a section where you walk behind a waterfall. This is a great introduction hike to Zion National park. The trail to the Lower Pool is well improved and suitable for most everyone. The rock and wooden steps to the Middle and Upper Pools make the footing more challenging for those with limited mobility. Keep an eye out for mule deer-we saw four grazing within a few feet of the trail. If you’re short on time - only do the lower pools. You won’t get the same sweeping views, but the actual pool is awesome. This is one of the Zion National Park kid-friendly hikes that we loved!
Sandbench Trail: This 7.6 miles trail follows along the Virgin River for the first part. The second half the trail is more scenic, so bring a camera! This is not a heavily trafficked trail, so you could have it to yourself! This trail does allow horses March to October.
Best Hikes for Teenagers in Zion National Park:
This overlook is on the way up to angel’s landing or scout lookout
Angel’s Landing: This strenuous trail is 5.4 miles round trip. Hikers will go up many very steep switchbacks leading to Scout Lookout. From there the trail gets steeper, more narrow, and has dangerous drop-offs. Hikers are rewarded with sweeping views of Zion Canyon. This is one of the Zion National Park main attractions, so expect crowds. ****In response to concerns about crowding and congestion on the trail, on and after April 1, 2022, everyone who hikes Angels Landing needs to have a permit
NOTE: Kids can get to Scout Landing just fine, but it is not safe for young children to go the extra .5 miles to Angel’s Landing. Be prepared with hiking shoes that grip and gloves to hold the guide ropes.
Observation Point: This strenuous 2.5-mile trail is considered to have views that rival the famed Angel’s Landing. This trail is less trafficked. Hikers are rewarded with sweeping views of Zion Canyon.
Hidden Canyon Trail: This strenuous 8-mile hike is a continuation of the Observation Trail. The trail takes hikers along a cliffside to a narrow canyon.
The Subway: Permit Required for this Trail. This strenuous 9-mile trail takes hikers “from the bottom up” into The Subway. This hike is more intense and difficult than The Narrows as it requires climbing down waterfalls and scrambling over boulders.
The Narrows: This strenuous “trail” can be up to 9.4 miles. It takes hikers into the Narrows via the Riverside walk. This route is known as the bottom-up Narrows and does not require a permit. Hikers go as far as they are comfortable, then hike back the way you came. Hikers will spend at least 60% of the hike wading, walking, and sometimes swimming in the river. Travel is rough and slippery in cold, fast-flowing water. This is one of the Zion National Park main attractions, so expect large crowds in peak months. Use appropriate equipment and clothing to help protect you. Before your hike, always check the weather and flash flood potential (links available on our website or information updated at the Visitor Center). Flash floods are deadly.
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The switchbacks along the trail t Angels landing or scout overlook
2) Kolob Canyons
We were impressed by this part of Zion and think this is one of the best places in Zion National Park. This part of the park contains a five-mile scenic drive along Kolob Canyons Road that has amazing views of the crimson canyons. Along this road visitors will have access to various trails and scenic viewpoints. Here in the northwest corner of the park, narrow parallel box canyons are cut into the western edge of the Colorado Plateau, forming majestic peaks and 2,000 foot cliff walls.
Hiking in Kolob Canyon is different than in Zion Canyon because you’ll experience fewer other hikers, but get the same jaw-dropping views. We did the 1 mile round trip hike to Kolob Canyon Viewpoint and were not disappointed.
From the Zion Canyon Visitor center, it takes about 1 hour, 20 minutes to get to the entrance of Kolob Canyons. Plan to spend at least half a day exploring this part of the park and if you’re wanting to do the longer hikes - plan to spend an entire day here.
Hiking in Kolob Canyons:
Timber Creek Overlook Trail: DON’T MISS THIS TRAIL. This easy 1 mile trail follows a small ridge and ends at an amazing Overlook. We did this trail and we sat along the canyon wall taking in the views from Kolob Canyons Viewpoint for a long time. If you look really far South, you may see Mount Trumbull 100 miles away at the north rim of the Grand Canyon. There is a nice parking lot and restrooms at the beginning of the trail. Timber Creek is one of the Zion National Park kid-friendly hikes! It is perfect if you’re headed to Zion National Park with a baby or if you’re headed to Zion National Park with toddlers!
Taylor Creek Trail: This moderate 5 mile trail takes hikers into a box canyon. Here hikers are rewarded with views of naturally carved openings in the sandstone called Double Arch Alcove. The trail does crisscross Taylor Creek, so wear shoes you don’t mind getting wet. This trail will also take hikers to the two historic homestead cabins!
La Verkin Creek Trail: This moderate 14.0 mile trail is a great way to get into the true wilderness of Zion. It is not heavily trafficked, so if solitude is what you’re looking for - try this trail. One incredible feature of this hike is that it takes hikers to Kolob Arch which is one of the world’s largest natural arches!
This is the view from the end of the timber creek overlook trail - the kolob canyon overlook
3) Bicycling
Due to the popularity of Zion, there are no cars allowed on Zion Canyon Scenic Road except for shuttle busses. This means that bicycling has become a very attractive means for visitors to zip around from trailhead to trail head exploring the park. Zion Canyon Scenic Road starts at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center and is 7.9 miles one-way to get to Temple of Sinawava which is the furthest trailhead.
There are some basic rules to follow,so make sure you know the rules of the road before you get started.
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4) Hike the Narrows
We hiked to the entrance of the narrows, but couldn’t actually hike it
If you’ve done any research on Zion National Park, you’ll have come across information about hiking The Narrows. This is one of the most popular activities in the park and many consider it one of the best things to do at Zion National Park.
Yes, children CAN hike the narrows, but parents must be extra vigilant and plan ahead. The Narrows can become deadly in a very short amount of time if there is any rain. We did not hike the Narrows due to a deadly neurotoxin in the water. This was in December 2020. I called the park before we left and was told the Neurotoxin was deadly to animals and small children. This information made the decision for me.
To help you decide whether you should hike The Narrows, check out the National Park information page and the safety page. As I said, this is one of the best things to do in Zion National Park in summer, so be informed and make the right decision for your family! (and have fun!)
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5) Zion Human History Museum
The Zion Human History Museum was closed during our visit in December 2020, but I truly wish we could have experienced it. Check HERE to see if it’s open for your visit.
The museum is conveniently located only half a mile from the Visitor Center, so you can park there and walk or bike over. The Museum displays the rich human history of Zion National Park. It is a perfect place to learn facts about Zion Nation Park for kids! The museum takes visitors through the American Indian culture, the stories of historic pioneer settlement, and Zion's growth as a national park. The Human History Museum also illustrates the effects of water and how it creates the scenery and sanctuary that makes Zion famous.
The Zion Human History Museum is also where you can watch the 22-minute national park video to get a strong understanding of Zion. When deciding what to see in Zion, add this to your must-see list!
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We experienced some of the diverse water flowing through zion. This is a waterfall along the upper emerald pools hike
6) Stargazing
Half the park is After Dark! Zion National Park takes pride in its dark skies and its effort to protect its dark sky. Many visitors stay in the park to watch the amazing colors of the sunset and then stay to be awed by the millions of stars you can see. It gets so dark in Zion Canyon at night that you can actually see the milky way with your bare eyes. Stargazing is one of the best family activities in Zion National Park because it gets the whole family up close to nature and most people have never experienced a true dark sky as they will in Zion!
Due to the dangers of hiking in the dark along most of Zion’s trails, Pa’rus trail is the only recommended night time trail.
Here are a few things to help prepare you for nighttime photography! Don’t forget your red light, star chart, tripod, and a chair!
if you’re staying in or near zion national park, be sure to look up at night!
7) Zion Junior Ranger Program
Both kids became Zion Junior Rangers
One of the most iconic Zion national park kids activities is the Junior Ranger Program. Zion offers a self-guided Junior Ranger experience for families visiting the park! If you’re in Zion with kids, you must experience the Junior Ranger program!
We picked up a Junior Ranger book and badge at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. Unlike other parks, the Rangers give you both at the same time, so you won’t need to come back.
We have Junior Ranger badges from all over the United States and think the program is one of the best things to do in Zion National Park or any park!
Check out the Junior Ranger page to learn more!
READ NEXT: What to do in Capitol Reef National Park with Kids
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8) Take a Scenic Drive
If you’re looking for some exceptional views as you drive, check out either the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive which takes you into the main canyon or you can drive the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway. Actually, I would say both of these drives are a must-not-miss. Both are absolutely fantastic. If you are visiting Zion with a toddler or visiting Zion with a baby, you can use their nap time to take one of these amazing scenic drives! You can start both drives at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center.
This is the checkerboard mesa along zion-mount carmel highway
Court of the patriarchs along zion canyon scenic drive
Zion Canyon Scenic Drive: This drive will take you down the middle of the famous Zion Canyon. You will see the Court of the Patriarchs, Angel’s Landing (from the bottom), Zion Lodge, and it will take you all the way to Temple of Sinawava. I suggest getting to the park before dawn to guarantee entry. Once they let a certain number of vehicles in, they close the road access.
***This drive is CLOSED to private vehicles from Spring through Fall (open to Shuttle & Lodge guests only)***
Zion-Mount Carmel Highway: This drive veers right and takes riders up an unbelievable set of switchbacks with incredible views of Zion Canyon. This road will also take you through the famous Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. (vehicle size restrictions apply) As you exit the tunnel, drivers enter seemingly another world of Zion. The unusual crack pattern in the sandstone hills resembles a grid much like you would see on a checkerboard. There are several pullouts along the highway and trailheads into some of the Zion backcountry. There are no defined hikes in this area, but you can get out and walk along the mesas at your leisure. This area is much lower trafficked than the main Zion Canyon.
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We stopped at a pullout along the switch backs on the zion-mount carmel highway and the views were spectacular.
Zion is one of the USA’s greatest national treasures. People come from all over the world to experience Zion Canyon and to walk among “The Gods”. There are so many Zion National Park family activities that no one will be bored on your adventure! Zion is home to intense canyons, cliffside switchbacks, serene riverside walks, unusually topography, and potentially, a lot of solitude. No matter whether you camp inside park or stay nearby, Zion National Park the the perfect adventure.
Also, if you’re looking for the best places to eat near Zion, I would like to suggest the Whiptail Grill. We ate there twice during our time in Zion because the staff was absolutely fantastic, but the food was to die for. I recommend getting the burrito!
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